Abstract

Background:
Semen quality during storage is a critical determinant of the success of artificial insemination in poultry. Muscovy duck (C. moschata), an important indigenous genetic resource in Indonesia, requires effective semen preservation methods to support breeding programs.

Aim:
This study investigated the effects of different glutathione (GSH) and vitamin C concentrations on the quality and longevity of Muscovy duck semen during cold storage. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on Muscovy ducks, the evaluation of multiple antioxidant concentrations, and detailed observation intervals to optimize semen preservation.

Methods:
Fresh semen was collected from adult Muscovy ducks and diluted with Ringer’s lactate extender supplemented with GSH (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 mM) or vitamin C (0.568, 1.136, 1.704, and 2.272 mM). The diluted semen was stored at 5 °C and evaluated every 12 h for motility, viability, abnormalities, and membrane plasma integrity. Longevity was defined as the duration during which motility and viability remained >50%.

Results:
Both antioxidants significantly influenced all semen quality parameters during storage (P < 0.01). Treatment with 0.1 mM GSH and 0.568 mM vitamin C consistently preserved higher motility, viability, and membrane integrity while minimizing abnormalities. These concentrations also yielded the highest semen longevity.

Conclusion:
Appropriate GSH and vitamin C concentrations effectively maintained the quality and longevity of Muscovy duck semen during cold storage. These antioxidants show potential for improving AI outcomes in poultry.

Key words: Cold storage; GSH; Muscovy duck; Semen extender; Vitamin C.